In Remembrance of Yeshua (Jesus) the Christ

 

Did you know that December 25th is not the actual arrival date of Yeshua (Jesus) Christ? 

Did you know that Christmas was a celebration of Christ that was established by the Roman Catholic Church when they initiated a Mass during the same season that people were already engaged in various winter solstice celebrations? 

That's how the term Christ Mass was established. It was all part of an effort to convert people to Christianity. However they failed to steer the people away from the sun god rituals in spite of the new church-initiated Mass to celebrate the Son of God.

We share this with you because many skeptics use this well established historical fact to attack the validity of Christian beliefs because of Christians who are ignorant of Church history. They feel that this discrepancy, concerning the birth of Christ, gives them leverage to deny the Bible and the Son of God.

We're just providing a little more understanding as to why there is so much confusion and controversy surrounding December 25th. There is a vast difference between Christmas and the winter sun god rituals that permeate our society.

Many Believers already know that the Bible never says that Christ came in December. The point is that it doesn't matter that His coming wasn't on December 25th. We assert that this church-initiated celebration was never an attempt to celebrate December 25th as Christ's date of birth. It was intended to celebrate the REALITY and PURPOSE for Him coming into our world. 

Since millions of people have come into the Faith as Protestants, they have never been aware of the history behind December 25th. Most of the evolution and perversion of the original purpose for Christmas is very negative and even involves an annual persecution of Jewish people on that day. For most Jewish people, December 25th is directly connected with a negative history of persecution, and it is a 24-hour celebration declaring that there is another way to come to Jehovah God; so they want no part of it.

Over the years, the Christmas (Christ Mass) celebration has embraced many non-Biblical traditions and those traditions have become disconnected from historical facts and understanding. Of course the history is far more complicated than this, but we really don't have space to cover every detail in a simple newsletter. Hopefully, this will get you started in pursuing answers in your own personal study.

As a side note, many Biblical historians believe that Christ actually arrived at a much more significant God-ordained time (perhaps the Feast of Tabernacle). 

Over the past few weeks, we have been offering very important points for you to consider for making Godly responses to the pagan origins of December 25th.

Here are the four points we asked you to consider for responding to people who are caught in the midst of this controversy:

1.) Become all things to all men - 1 Corinthians 9:18-23

2.) Don’t cause your brother to stumble - 1 Corinthians 8:4-13

3.) Use the opportunity (holiday) to bless your enemies - Matthew 5:43-45; and

4.) Continue in the early church lifestyle of giving to others/ helping the poor - Acts 2: 40-47

This week we are offering the fifth response:

5.) Consider a foundational Christian celebration: Partaking of the Lord's Table in Remembrance of Christ (Luke 22:14-20).

Yeshua (Jesus) instructed His followers to partake of the communion table in remembrance of Him. The winter holiday season is simply another OPPORTUNITY to RETURN the emphasis back to Christ by gathering to do what HE instructed us to do. That's what we choose to do every year within our Fruitful Life Learning Community.

Millions of Believers will gather in sanctuaries or in their homes to partake of Holy Communion and truly reflect upon the reason Christ came into the world.

These special gatherings remind us that the Son of God is not to be merely thought of as a baby lying in a manger, but as our Savior who was brutally beaten and nailed alive to a wooden cross. We should remember that He rose again from the dead to usher all of us into the Family and Kingdom of God.

As we stated last week, we are simply trying to communicate that in spite of the historical facts, controversies and conflicts that surround December 25th, CHRIST must truly become YOUR reason for this season and all year round.

The world will continue to celebrate the sun god (in all of its many names and forms) as part of their annual winter celebrations. WE must celebrate the Son of God and give a Godly RESPONSE to our non-believing family and friends, and to our Christian brothers and sisters who may not have this insight.

We're Building People.

Giving Is Already Our Lifestyle

Over the past few weeks we have been offering very important points for us to consider for making a Godly response to the pagan origins of December 25th. As Faith Leaders and Community Life Coaches, we have decided to provide practical answers and solutions for you and your family.

Here are three points we asked you to consider for responding to people who are caught in the midst of the December 25th controversy:

1.) Become all things to all men - 1 Corinthians 9:18-23

2.) Don’t cause your brother to stumble - 1 Corinthians 8:4-13, and

3.) Use the opportunity (holiday) to bless your enemies - Matthew 5:43-45

This week we are offering the fourth of five responses:

Response #4: Continue steadfast in the first-century church lifestyle of generosity - Acts 2: 40-47

In the early church, they developed a lifestyle of sharing with others and making intentional efforts to help those in need. This was not a practice that came out of pagan rituals or December 25th. The church did this as part of the overflow of the life of Christ within them.

Never think of gift-giving and helping the needy as only a December 25th thing. It's simply a Godly response. This date just happens to be a great time to do what should come naturally for Believers all year.

Today, we are urgently trying to communicate that in spite of the negative history, controversies and conflicts that surround December 25th, Christ must truly become YOUR reason for this season and all year round.

The world will continue to celebrate the sun god (in all its many names and forms) as part of their annual winter celebrations. WE must celebrate the Son of God and give a Godly RESPONSE to our non-believing family and friends, and to our Christian brothers and sisters who may not have this insight.

Many religious leaders are preaching strongly about the negative issues that surround December 25th. However, we believe that it is one thing to expose all the problems with this date, but it is another thing to actually offer a way for people to RESPOND in this season and bring Glory to God the Father.

Yes, we must speak the truth about December 25th, but what does it matter if we cannot present TRUTH in LOVE and take advantage of the opportunity to lead people to a genuine relationship with Father God through Christ?

Giving gifts and helping the needy is more than a December 25th thing; it's a Godly thing. God gave us the gift of His son. For God so loved the world that He gave..... 

We're Building People.

The Gift of Forgiveness

 

In the midst of global political and economic upheaval, people are struggling, trying to find a way to still celebrate the holiday season. The entire year has been challenging and even as it wraps up, it still shows no sign of letting up on the relentless assault on our lives.

For centuries, people of various faiths and religious beliefs have furiously battled over the appropriate way to deal with the holiday season. Even within Christianity there are debates about the way December 25th should be celebrated, or if it should be celebrated at all.

A couple weeks ago we started discussing the controversies surrounding various December 25th celebrations and traditions; and how we, as Believers, must stop merely REACTING to the negative origins of this date and begin making a wise RESPONSE to this season.

We are offering at least Five Godly Responses to December 25th.

So far we have presented two responses:
#1: Become All Things to All Men from 1 Corinthians 9:18-23 (NKJV)
#2: Don’t cause your brother to stumble from 1 Corinthians 8:9-13 (NKJV)

This week we’re offering response #3 - Use the opportunity (holiday) to love, bless, do good and pray for your enemies, cursers, haters and persecutors. 

Many people are giving in to the pressure to buy gifts and they’re going to run up huge credit card bills to do it. Recently, we saw a celebrity on a talk show and he said the only thing he asked his family and friends to give him was a gift that doesn’t cost any money. So he simply asked for a letter, a poem, a song, a phone call, etc. It is truly amazing how one of the richest people in America has a request for the most important things in life. Meanwhile, many of the poorest people in America will try to spend money.

We plan to enjoy the holiday by spending time with family. We are focusing on our relationships; even the relationships that are not doing so well. We encourage you to do the same.

In Matthew 5:43-45 (NKJV), Jesus said: “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust."

This may seem radical, but we believe that we can use this holiday season as an opportunity to bless those who are our enemies. Jesus actually tells us to bless those who curse us.

What a marvelous time to do something so completely unexpected that it truly personifies what it means to be a child of our Father in heaven. Just like HE provides sunshine and rain (and rain was a wonderful thing for their agriculturally-based society) to evil and good people, we can express His goodness and mercy in a tangible way as well.

For many of us, we don’t have to think too hard to come up with a name or two of people whom we could bless in this way. Many people will be scrambling through shopping malls trying to find the perfect gift for someone who is very special to them. But what if we include in our lists, a couple of people who don’t like us very much?

In these harsh economic times, millions of people don’t have very much money for purchasing gifts and December 25th has become more of a burden of obligation than a time of celebration. However, we encourage you to consider those who spitefully used you or even persecuted you. It might be something as simple as sending a Christmas card or extending an invitation to dinner.

One year the Holy Spirit showed me that I had buried unforgiveness regarding a childhood bully. Just mentioning his name brought up old feelings of anger and resentment. So the Lord impressed upon me to start the cleansing process by sending a Christmas card with a letter. It was to be the first step in blessing someone who persecuted me long ago.

What names and faces come into your thoughts as you consider this Godly response? Don’t hesitate. Take advantage of this holiday season to respond like a child of God. Give the gift of forgiveness.

We're Building People!

A Matter of Conscience

In the midst of global political and economic upheaval, people are struggling, trying to find a way to still celebrate the holiday season. The entire year has been challenging and even as it wraps up, it still shows no sign of letting up on the relentless assault on our lives.

In years past, people of various faiths and religious beliefs have furiously battled over the appropriate way to deal with the holiday season. Even within Christianity there are debates about the way December 25th should be celebrated, or if it should be celebrated at all.

Last week we began discussing some of the controversies surrounding December 25th and how we, as Believers, can stop merely REACTING to the negative origins of this date and begin making wise RESPONSES to this season.

We are offering at least Five Godly Responses to December 25th.

Last week we presented response #1: Become All Things to All Men, according to 1 Corinthians 9:18-23.

This week we offer response #2: Don’t cause your brother to stumble - 1 Corinthians 8:4-13 (NKJV)

In his first letter to the church in Corinth, Paul was dealing with a matter that was very similar to the controversial December 25th issues. Some Believers were participating in the practice of eating food that was offered to idols. They didn’t feel restricted because they knew that the idols were not real gods and they also knew that what goes into a person is not what defiles them.

It’s the same for Christian Believers today who participate in modern December 25th rituals that have proven historical foundation in idol worship (The sun god and a season known as Saturnalia). They feel, just as those early Believers to whom Paul had written, that they are free in Christ Jesus. Therefore, they have no problem with celebrating December 25th with some of the pagan mixtures. 

Many educated Believers know that Christmas was started as something that was seperate from Saturnalia and sun god celebrations, but a lot of those pagan rituals became mixed in with the celebration of Christ; even confusing December 25th as Christ's date of birth, when it was actually a celebration of His coming to save mankind, not a commemoration of the day He was born.

However, Paul admonished those early Believers to not allow their freedom to cause another brother to stumble. He explained that due to his brother's conscience, he did not have internal permission to participate in that practice of eating food offered to idols.

If another Believer is struggling with our practices, it may wound their conscience. Paul actually says that we sin against our brother and Christ. The sin is not the practice itself, but it is in how the participation affects our brothers.

Let’s read the letter: “Therefore concerning the eating of things offered to idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is no other God but one. For even if there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth (as there are many gods and many lords), yet for us there is one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we for Him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom are all things, and through whom we live.

However, there is not in everyone that knowledge; for some, with consciousness of the idol, until now eat it as a thing offered to an idol; and their conscience, being weak, is defiled. But food does not commend us to God; for neither if we eat are we the better, nor if we do not eat are we the worse.

But beware lest somehow this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to those who are weak. For if anyone sees you who have knowledge eating in an idol’s temple, will not the conscience of him who is weak be emboldened to eat those things offered to idols? And because of your knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died? But when you thus sin against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, you sin against Christ. Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never again eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.”

We realize that even though there are many things that are okay for Chris and Carol to do, as Spiritual life coaches and leaders in this community, they are not always expedient. Some things are not wise for us to do. Some things are not beneficial for us to do. There are many things that we were at liberty to say and do in Missouri that have proven to be offensive in Pennsylvania. So we don't do them for the sake of our brothers and sisters in this region and culture.

Why abstain? Well, because we have an extremely important mission and purpose. Some of our freedoms could go beyond merely offending another brother, and could actually cause them to stumble. Paul says that some of our freedoms could actually wound another brother’s conscience. Our freedoms can cause others, who are outside of the Faith, to continue in their ungodly practices. So, we have learned that some things are just not worth it. Why risk losing potential brothers and sisters or wounding current brothers and sisters?

What are we saying to you today? We're saying, please be very careful of what you practice in this controversial season. Allow the Holy Spirit to give you the 'yea and nay' about what you do. Don't question Him. Just obey Him.

We cannot, do not, must not, and will not dictate what goes on in your home. We’re not the December 25th police! God knows who is in your family and He knows the people who are part of your life. You might be connected to people with whom your response is based upon what we mentioned last week ….I have become, to those who are without law, as without law.

Most of today’s December 25th practices don’t cause people any internal conflict because they have no knowledge of the history. But if you are closely connected with Believing family members who have issues with these things, be very wise and sensitive to where they are in their conscience. They would require the response from last week's scripture .…I become to those who are under the law, as under the law.

Remember, a person’s beliefs are often deeply rooted in teachings, upbringing, personal interpretation, history and life-long understandings. It really is a matter of their conscience. Don’t force someone to violate their own conscience. It’s not simply a matter of whether THEY are right or wrong about December 25th. Don’t let your freedom cause your brother to stumble.

We're Building People.

The Holiday Challenge

It’s that time again. It’s the holiday season. It’s time for family, fellowship, food and.... controversy. 

Following Thanksgiving, people usually start to immediately prepare for December 25th. That's because the day after Thanksgiving is the "official" start of the holiday shopping season. 

In the midst of global political and economic upheaval, people are struggling, trying to find a way to still celebrate the holiday season. The entire year has been challenging and even as it wraps up, it still shows no sign of letting up on the relentless assault on our lives.

In years past, people of various faiths and religious beliefs have furiously battled over the appropriate way to deal with the holiday season. Even within Christianity there are debates about the way December 25th should be celebrated, or if it should be celebrated at all.

Every year, we take advantage of this annual holiday launch to start talking about December 25th and what it truly means in America today.

Did you know that millions of people believe December 25th should not be celebrated at all?

Perhaps you are one of them.

When you learn about some of its background and history you can understand why. Here are just a few reasons why it is not celebrated in many sectors of American society. You might have family or friends who feel this way:

1.) December 25th is just a capitalistic marketing ploy to manipulate the masses to spend money.

2.) There is no Christian church validation that Jesus was really born on December 25th.

3.) December 25th is a day on which Jews have been shamed, tortured and murdered.

4.) Many of the most popular December 25th customs – including trees, mistletoe, stockings and Santa Claus – are modern reincarnations of pagan rituals.

5.) Most December 25th customs evolved from pagan rituals and practices and, therefore, should never be observed.

We agree that these are all very strong arguments for not participating in the festivities of the holiday. Many preachers across America will accurately and systematically destroy any reason a Christian Believer could possibly be connected to modern-day rituals associated with this season of the year.

However, as you know, we have built a reputation in addressing controversial topics and we’re about to add more fuel to that fire.

Many Christians and religious people have taken the position that it is wrong to embrace things that were perverted and sinful in their origins. They feel we should never attempt to use these things for God. However, that's exactly what God did for us. Even though we were born in sin and shaped in iniquity, Christ died for us while we were still sinners. For anyone who receives Him, He gives them the power to become children of God. He changes us and sets us apart for His purpose. He didn't allow our sinful origins to keep us away from His divine purpose.

Now, as His children, we have the opportunity to take advantage of a season that has very negative origins and highly commercialized, money-making schemes. This is one of the special times in which our families can be exposed to the reality of Christ and the true reason why He came to earth.

We believe that we must do much more than just debate about all the reasons why we should not celebrate December 25th. Most people simply REACT to the negative aspects of this date. We believe that we need to provide Believers some Godly ways to RESPOND to this season.

Beginning this week, we want to give you Five Godly Responses to December 25th.

This week we’re presenting response #1: Become All Things to All Men.

In 1 Corinthians 9:18-23, Paul writes, "For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more; and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might win those who are under the law; to those who are without law, as without law (not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ), that I might win those who are without law; to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. Now this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I may be partaker of it with you."

We see the holiday season as the perfect opportunity to connect with many different kinds of people. This scripture does not mean that we become hypocrites and pretenders in order to indulge in secular practices. This is talking about connecting with people ON THEIR LEVEL of understanding. This is about identifying with them, the same way Christ identified with all of mankind.

Don't shun people because of what they believe or practice during this season. Don't isolate yourself from the office party or the family gathering because they may have traditions or rituals that are against your beliefs. Become all things to all men, so that you might by all means save some.

We're Building People.

Presentation to Global Consortium of Leaders

UGCSI --- With his wife Carol by his side, Life Educator Chris Green was the featured presenter last week, in a special online conference of United Graduate College and Seminary International’s Global Consortium of Searcher Professors.

In a live video conference that was hosted by Chancellor Michal P. Pitzl, who founded the Searcher Education model and philosophy, and Chief Chancellor HRH, Dr Clyde Rivers, the purpose of the session was to encourage and empower the attendees with wisdom for their process of building toward and preparation for global opportunities to bring the answers that nations are looking for through the collective impact of Searcher Education.

“We continue to be honored by the opportunities that UGCSI gives us to impart the lessons that we have learned in our journey, with servant leaders from all over the world,” said Professor Chris who, with is wife Carol, is also Vice Chancellor of Administrative Leadership at UGCSI, and the founder of the STEP Forward Life Institute. “Five years ago we could never have imagined that we would be teaching on an international platform.”

The session, which included attendees from Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, South Africa, Trinidad & Tobago, the United Kingdom, and the United States, began with HRH Dr. Clyde Rivers speaking about his journey and the process he has gone through to reach the top status as the major voice of Civility in the world.

Then, at the request of the UGCSI Chancellors, Professor Green made a presentation about the Biblical precedence and practice of documenting one’s journey and progress. He demonstrated how this practice builds the evidence of success. He revealed that record keeping is so important that God had it documented that the writers of the Bible were documenting. He showed how keeping records saved a man’s life. He shared that we know about the life of Christ because it was documented. And he asked what would be today's understanding of the Church if Luke had not documented the Acts of the Apostles.

In closing, he provided tips and tools for building evidence in one’s Searcherdemic philosophy.

“We thank Professors Chris and Carol for giving us the practical steps forward in this,” Chancellor Pitzl informed the attending professors. “They are ready to help you in this process.”

“This is one of the greatest evenings that I’ve ever enjoyed,” stated Professor Jared Akama Onyari from Kenya. “It was very informative and educating. Searcher education is God’s education. If we have been given this Searcher Education, we should be like the prophets in the Bible. When God was speaking to them, they were working with it and writing it down. I thank you Professor Chris for giving this presentation. We cannot talk of Searcher Education if we are not able to document it for future generations.”

Called to the Ministry of Reconciliation

Christopher G. Green (D.Hon.Causa)

I wrote the following 6 years ago after Donald Trump was elected President of the United States of America. Now that we have just come through the midterm elections, I still stand by these words today:

As I have written and warned in previous blogs, many in the American Christian Church were choosing sides. Millions of Believers were voting based on issues of liberty (religious, civil, moral, etc.). On the other hand, millions were voting based on issues of justice (economical, social, political, etc.). 

Please don't be duped. Get out of your feelings and emotions and really listen to what I’m saying. We cannot win this battle by seeking one or the other (liberty or justice). In our pledge of allegiance, the quote is "liberty AND justice" for ALL. If you fight for liberty at the expense of justice, there will be an uprising from those who are not getting justice. If you fight for justice at the expense of liberty, the entire country will pay the price, falling under the tyranny of the majority.

So how do we get both liberty and justice for all?

I believe both are found only in one government and that is the Kingdom of God. I'm talking about the governance of God in every heart and home.

Now let me make it practical for what is happening in America today. The ugly giants of racism and class-ism are rising and Christian Believers will not be able to ignore them any longer. In today’s world, silence is approval of the suppression of liberty or justice. We must recognize it in our own hearts and expose it in our own Churches. We must deal with the -isms, but joining with or simply ignoring the protests, even in your own heart, is not the way.

The slumbering giant (the True Church) is waking up. It is waking to its mission to win and disciple the nations, to take care of the poor and widows, and to walk and live in unity and love. 

We are Ambassadors of Christ, called to the Ministry of Reconciliation. We are not called to merely fight for liberty, but we must join the fight for justice as well. We can no longer leave these battles to the government or radical activist groups.

A violent overthrow of President-elect Trump and the White Supremacy mindset that is often attached to many of his supporters, will not bring Peace, liberty or justice.  If that were to occur, people would not unite. Instead, such action would only release another set of protests; perhaps a major revolt. 

I'm not a Republican. I'm not a conservative (many people's code word for racist).  I'm not a Democrat. I'm not a progressive (many people's code word for socialist). I’m another one of those registered Independents who has, through the years, sometimes voted for write-ins at the Presidential level, while voting according to my understanding of Biblical priorities at the state and local levels of government. So I have no allegiance to any earthly parties. I ‘m not writing from those perspectives.

Let me start here. 

My government is within me: Righteousness, Peace and Joy in the Holy Ghost. On the earth, I can vote for a president, but in reality, I have a king. He is the God of the universe. He told Pontius Pilate, "My Kingdom is not of this world."  

So our role, in this emerging racial and class war, is to promote reconciliation. Specifically, reconciliation to God, and then to one another. That's what the Word of God declares. It’s not an opinion. It's the command of God.

Reconciliation is about bringing opposing forces and enemies together. Every one of us, in the True Church, is called to THIS. God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself. His word declares that He now pleads to the world through us. 

Over the last week I’ve had to tell myself to get back in focus. Get back to the reason God saved me. Get back to the place where I kept my eyes on the Lord our God.  Let’s seek first the Kingdom of God and get His strategy to reconcile the fight for liberty with the fight for justice. He will do amazing things in the hearts of people.

God says in His word: “Why do the nations rage, imagining a vain thing?” God laughs from the heaven because He has already installed His king. His king is installed in the hearts of His people and they already have a government. They already have a purpose because GOD already has a plan.  His plan is Reconciliation. He desires to reconcile ALL people to Himself and to one another. 

So, before we try to fix America, let’s allow God to work IN us, so He can speak through us to bring reconciliation.

Christopher G. Green

People Get Our Votes, but Only GOD Gets Our Confidence

As we prepare for another election, we offer no political opinions. We simply present the spiritual and moral issues that are identified in the Bible. Unfortunately, the issues and interpretations of morality, justice and equality have fallen on two different sides of the dominant political parties in America.

This dilemma causes many Believers to vote for a president who is a Democrat while others vote for Senators and Congressmen who are Republicans. Or they vote for a Republican president while others vote for Senators and Congressmen who are Democrats. This is why it’s so difficult to navigate through the political process in our country. It’s also the reason it’s so difficult to explain one’s choices to family, friends and colleagues.

I wrote the following words after Obama was elected president, and they still hold true after the elections of Trump and Biden. I wrote this nearly fourteen years ago and it is incredibly amazing how it still applies to us today:

After we sent an email on the day of President Obama’s inauguration and quoted from the Bible that we are to pray for him, several pastors and leaders in this community, who opposed Obama, discontinued support and communication with this ministry and us. On the other side, friends and family who supported the new president took our email to mean that we were merely offering some form of insincere political patronizing.

We thought we were (and our intentions were) fulfilling our Pastoral leadership responsibility to bring our divided congregations together and to focus on the things that God desires to do in our nation. Our email had nothing to do with either endorsing or rejecting the President.

Here is what we sent out on January 21, 2009:

"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers and intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone---for kings, and for all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good and pleases God our Savior." ---1 Timothy 2:1-3

Make no mistake about it; yesterday (the inauguration) was a profoundly significant day. We still don’t agree with some of President Obama’s policies and agendas. Many of them conflict with Biblical teachings. However, that still doesn’t change the fact that God will use anybody to accomplish what HE wants to do in a nation.

Where did we get the idea that a political leader MUST be someone who follows all of the principles of the Bible in order for God to use that person to accomplish His purpose and plan?

Again, we're not ignoring the agenda of any particular President. We’re actually acknowledging the sovereignty of God. As flawed as we are as human beings, it’s amazing that God chooses us to do anything in this life.

God called Nebuchadnezzar His servant even though he was the emperor that destroyed Jerusalem, killed thousands of people, and carried their best and brightest into exile. God chose him to execute judgment; therefore he was God’s servant even though he wasn’t a Godly man.

Presidential elections are about more than trying to get a scripture-quoting, Bible-toting candidate in the Oval Office. This is about getting synchronized with what God is doing in our lifetime in America. If America is under judgment, (and many Christian leaders believe it is) then God will set the person in place that needs to be there at the time of judgment, repentance, recovery or rebuilding.

So we’re going to stay focused on the bigger picture. It doesn’t matter so much who sits in the Oval Office of the White House. It still comes down to who is sitting in the Oval Office of MY house.

We'll close this week's newsletter with the lyrics of a song written by a dear mentor and friend more than 40 years ago.

If you want a brand new world, you gotta have brand new people.

If you want brand new people, we've gotta have a brand new life.

If you want a brand new life, you gotta have a brand new spirit.

If you want a brand new spirit, you gotta come to Jesus Christ!

- Dr. Myles Munroe

We encourage you to cast your vote, but do not cast your cares on a human being. A potential candidate will get our votes, but only GOD gets all our confidence.

For the least of these, 

Christopher G. Green (D.Hon.Causa) 

Life Educators Launch New Online, On-Demand Video Life Coach Training and Certification Format

 

Pennsylvania, USA – Professors Chris and Carol Green announce the official launch of a new online, on-demand format for their nationally and internationally recognized and endorsed Life Coach Certification Program known as Listen, Lift, Launch: Training and Certification in CARE-Ready Life Coaching™. 

As the founders of the STEP Forward Life Institute™ and affiliate members of iChange Nations™, the Greens partnered with United Graduate College and Seminary International to offer an accelerated and accredited life coach certification program for people who have a simple desire to help others. Their collective vision was to offer servant-leaders working in under-served communities, high-quality tools that empower and equip them to be more effective in their humanitarian efforts.

“We have been blessed to provide life coach training and certification for organizations and individuals for over five years,” said the master life coaches. “Once we got to the point where our sessions were selling out, we started looking toward a day when we could offer the course in an on-demand video format, as well as in-person or via live video conferencing.”

With the successful graduation of candidates in March of 2022, they have launched 100 CARE-Ready Life Coaches who are disbursed and embedded in 30+ organizations, businesses, agencies or ministries across ten states including: California, Delaware, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and Tennessee.

“With our new on-demand format, prospective coaches can now go through the training at their own pace,” the Greens explained. “We are extremely confident that we have produced a quality certification program that includes video lessons, rigorous exercises, and direct access to online instructors; and that it will be just as impactful as if though our students were walking through it in a live setting.”

More information and details are available through the STEP Forward Life Institute™.

As the world's leading producers of CARE-Ready Life Coaches™, Chris and Carol Green teach and train community, government and education leaders, human service organizers, business visionaries, and neighborhood dreamers how to be much more effective by embracing the principles of CARE (Compassionate Accountability with Respect and Empathy) in their professional and personal lives.

Many coaching, mentoring, community outreach programs and ministries employ what is known as a "deficit model" of working with people. That's an attempt to 'fix' broken people through a set of pre-determined, cookie cutter, one-size-fits-all steps and treatments to address their issues. The deficit-based model is what many well-meaning people-helpers use, but it rarely works long-term, leaving them wondering why people fail to break the cycles of addiction, mental health challenges, poverty and recidivism.

However, CARE-Ready Life Coaching™ mirrors the principles found in the proven, Best Practice strategies of Strength-based, Solution-focused models that are embedded in the Biblical principles of discipleship in the Kingdom of God. CARE-Ready life coaches are trained to connect with people in order to build a relationship/ partnership that encourages and empowers; thus allowing the client to discover true solutions and answers for their lives.

Learn more about the CARE-Ready Life Coach™ Certification Program at  https://www.fruitfullifelearningcommunity.org/care-ready-certification

Prayer and Proclamation Over Your Family

Recognizing that my fight is not against flesh and blood, political parties, activist groups or social movements, I stand here in the gap for my family. 

With the spiritual weapons of prayer, praise, worship and the Word of God, I declare that I am not afraid of my spiritual enemies. 

I remember the Lord, Great and Awesome, as I fight for my brothers and sisters, my sons and daughters, and my household. 

According to the promise in Isaiah 54:17, “No weapon that is formed against me will prosper; and every tongue that accuses me in judgment, I will condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and my vindication is from the Lord.” 

So Father God, I receive Your grace, favor, protection and wisdom. I thank You for giving Your angels charge over me and my family, to keep me in all of my ways. 

I am now strengthened to overcome every hindrance and every detour that the enemy has always been able to throw in my path. 

The cycles of defeat, discouragement, depression and doubt are broken over my heart and my home, right now. 

I declare that I am now set free to be all You created me to be, to do all that I need to do, and obtain all that I need to obtain. 

Under the authority of  Yeshua (Jesus) The Christ I pray. From this day forth I will stop allowing the disappointments of the past to hinder me from embracing the destiny You have set before me. 

Lord, help me to consistently live in Your presence and in the power of Your Spirit. 

Help me not to limit You by my fear, sin, low expectations or distractions. Fill me afresh with Your power. 

Cause me to defeat the spiritual influences that opposed Nehemiah (Sanballat, Tobiah, the Arabs, the Ammonites and the Ashdodites), that now comes against me, my family, my job, my business, and The Church. 

I WILL connect with other households of humility that really desire God; people of like mind and spirit; the ones who will dare to step out of their comfort zone, leave religious bondage; walk out of their personal prisons, and receive all that You (our God) have stored up for them; people who will receive the priority of the presence and Word of God in their hearts and homes. 

I thank You for showing me my Rehoboth (the place where You make room for me). Make a way for me O' God! You are my only source. 

I thank You for making a way out of no way. I lift my hands, my heart, and my life to You! 

I declare that the Blood of Yeshua (Jesus) The Christ has given me authority over satan’s ability. 

No word of witchcraft, sorcery, doubt or depression will take over our minds, emotions, bodies, or will. 

I nullify all plans that bring conflicts and confrontational incidents designed to prevent me from hearing the Word of God and receiving that impartation of the Holy Spirit that makes me free. 

I break generational curses and spiritual influences that manifest every time I stand on the brink of promise. 

I am free in the name and authority of Yeshua (Jesus) The Christ. 

I receive Your, presence, provision, protection, promotion and purpose for my life and my family! 

According to Ephesians 1:15-21, fill me with the Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation in the knowledge of Christ and cause the eyes of my understanding to be enlightened. 

Give me Your heart for souls; for the hurting and lost in my household and amongst my kin. 

Use me as a conduit of your Love and Grace. 

Move me out of my comfort zone. I want to be constrained by Your love, to live, act and speak like You. 

I yield my entire being to You. 

Lord of the Harvest, I pray that you would thrust out laborers into the field of family, because this harvest is ripe and it is plentiful. 

There is more than enough for everyone to take part in the harvest of souls in our households. 

Father God, I agree with You in these things, in the name and the authority of Yeshua (Jesus) The Christ. 

Amen.... ‘so be it.’ 

Fruitful  Family Prayer at www.fruitful-life.net/fightforyourfamily

Life Educators Train and Launch New CARE-Ready Responders from Missouri Faith Community

Chris and Carol Green in Virtual Training with their home church in St. Louis, MO

Missouri, USA ---- Today, Life Educators Chris and Carol Green presented 12 worthy recipients their CARE-Ready Responder Certificates of Completion after they successfully attended two virtual training sessions that were hosted by the Metro Christian Worship Center in St. Louis, MO. (June 22nd and July 20th of 2022)

CARE-Ready Responding is the cutting-edge concept that was created by the Greens, that empowers people-helpers to operate in the principles of Civility, Awareness, Respect and Empathy in their personal and professional lives.

Bishop Raphael Green invited Chris and Carol Green, who had previously served as part of the founding ministry leadership of that congregation for 17 years, to return and adapt the virtual training for that congregation’s overall preparation for Evangelism and Discipleship of their families and communities.

In making the presentations the Greens told the new CARE-Ready Responders:

“With the tools and principles you have learned, you will be able to:

• connect and communicate with others more like Christ, no matter who they are, what they do, or what they believe

• have real conversations with others without comprising what you believe

• build trust BEFORE making an impartation into other's lives

• SEE the people and the world around you with hope

• be an active member in an ever-changing society while staying focused on where God has assigned you

• continually and effectively serve those hurting or in need

This training and these principles can be applied everywhere you serve, everywhere you interact with people. What you have now been equipped to do with CARE-Readiness™ - is enough for you to begin making real, lasting connections, one person and one soul at a time. So, go into the world and respond with CARE!”

The CARE-Ready Responder training is facilitated through the STEP Forward Life Institute™ which the Greens founded as an affiliate institution of United Graduate College and Seminary International. STEP Forward is an accredited online life education and ministry preparation platform. 

The Greens explain, “We provide practical instruction that equips our online students to add to their faith, embrace their unique process of success, and make certain they’re prepared for those once in a lifetime opportunities to minister to their families and serve in their community.”

To date, the Greens have now launched 38 CARE-Ready Responders across the United States. They offer this training as the pre-requisite for Responders who desire to ultimately become CARE-Ready Life Coaches.

Life Educators Publish Book on the Process of Success

"Success is not only about what you will accomplish," writes the ICN 2022 World Civility Icon Awardees for: Global Educators of the Year, in their latest publication, "Ultimately it’s about who you will become." 

In their latest book, Rest, Retreats, Revival and Other Comedies, subtitled You are Success in Process,  Professors Chris and Carol Green offer their readers a healthy and balanced perspective on what it means to

Rest in God and get out of the grind mindset;

Retreat after devastating setbacks and disappointments;

Revive and reset to come back out fighting again; 

and to be open, honest and humbled by the Comedy of Errors; the mistakes and bad decisions, upon which God extended mercy and grace. 

"This book isn't for everyone," the Greens affirm, "It's for that person who is sick and tired of projecting a brave front while hiding their deep disappointment behind spirituality.  It's for the person who is no longer looking for a typical self-help manual, filled with inspirational stories and motivational meditations. THIS book is for that soul who is ready to challenge themselves about why things aren't going right; and wants to finally break FREE from the unending cycles of defeat and discouragement." 

From the Book's Foreword: 

This book is a revelation on how to understand change. It lays out the truth about "process", as productive lives are always on a journey of constant growth and change. To stop growing and changing is to die. 

The Greens are top Searcherdemcians who are not afraid to take new paths to help lift and better humanity. They are not scared to be Searchers of a new way of doing things and because of this, they are fruitful. 

They have gone through growth, death, and rebirth, while leading in a new philosophy of education for which the world is crying out. 

I've had the privilege of knowing and working with the Greens for nearly a decade.  I have observed their approach and can vouch for their genuineness and productivity. They have diligently worked, scraped, and sacrificed their way to top stages of influence.     

I say, "When all else fails, follow the fruit." Professors Chris and Carol Green are good fruit and have produced tangible evidence and results of their life skills theory, "You are Success in Process." 

In this book, you are sure to find where you are "in your process."  You are sure to find your next step.  You will be encouraged and reassured that you are not alone in your journey.  You will find that you are "God's Success in Process." 

How refreshing is that?! 

This is a riveting book that has inspired and impacted my life. 

You will already be succeeding by picking it up. 

---Chancellor Michal P. Pitzl,   

United Graduate College and Seminary, Int’l 

Available on Amazon Books

Chris and Carol Green Earn Life Achievement Doctorates in Searcherdemics

Chris and Carol Green, (D.Se)

United Graduate College and Seminary Int'l:  In a historical first, Chris and Carol Green were each conferred an exclusive UGCSI Life Achievement Doctorate in Searcherdemics, in a virtual ceremony that was conducted during a UGCSI Searcher Education Summit with its Chancellors and Professors.

"Thank you for giving voice to Holy Spirit experience," expressed Carol Green, the newly credentialed professor. UGCSI's Chief Chancellor, HRH, Sir Clyde Rivers and its Chancellor, Dr. Michal P. Pitzl, officially bestowed the degrees. "And thank you for allowing us the opportunity to change and enrich the world by passing on the knowledge of God and His viewpoint that changes lives in practical and profound ways."

Chancellor Pitzl is the founder and creator of the Searcherdemic Education model which has the potential to acknowledge and credential millions of people around the world, whose ideas and visions are lost simply because they don't have the finances or opportunities to navigate through the traditional educational matriculation process. 

"Your life, and the work that you have done, is the most tangible education that I have ever seen," Chancellor Pitzl told the Greens. "And if it is not worthy of a doctorate, I don't know what is." 

Searcherdemics is an instructional and teaching paradigm that provides a new educational opportunity for innovative minds; the people who often don't score well in standardized educational systems because they don't have standardized minds. In this model, students do much more than academically study, research, write papers and pass exams. They become their own case studies and real-world research through the implementation of their innovations and ideas. This education ideaology is founded on the principle that the Holy Spirit of God is the ultimate Educator. Therefore, students must search out the Godly knowledge and wisdom that will help them produce successful evidence-based results. 

Searcherdemics has become a new avenue for the masterful innovators who, most likely, would never have earned college degrees, even though they completely change the world by impacting the industries, disciplines, and communities in which they serve. Traditionally, the most they could ever hope for was an honorary masters or doctoral degree, or a certificate or plaque for their revoltionary ideas. Searcherdemics says they should receive actual earned credentials for their society-impacting life achievements that were accomplished due to their dedication, hard work, perseverance, and proven, evidence-based success.

"Thank you for encouraging, equipping and empowering us to move forward in our Searcher journey," Professor Chris Green stated, "We are eternally grateful and honored to receive such a prestigious credential. All glory and praise goes to God alone."

He added, "We love the fact that UGCSI is empowering people who can produce real answers for our world's problems, and this educational method provides an actual, measurable standard of success that can be recognized with comparable credentials that say, 'This Searcherdemician has the expertise and wisdom to successfully implement, teach, duplicate, and defend their philosophy.'"

Chief Chancellor Rivers recalled when he first met the Greens and how they built their God-given ideas into something that government leaders have acknowledged and supported in their community. He called them the poster children for Searcherdemics because we now live in a world that can't wait for 20-years of research before a new idea or methodology can be embraced. The pandemic exposed many of the fundamental, philosophical flaws in nearly every industry and normally it would take decades to respond. However, solutions can come forth NOW, from the Searcherdemicians who are already the embodiment of decades of research, case studies, and success.

"Consider that a prospectus is usually a document that outlines something that doesn't exist, yet it describes what it will become," explains the Greens who have successfully implemented, taught, duplicated and defended their Philosophy of CARE. "Searcherdemics believes you are that prospectus document. Therefore, the searcherdemic model is more than an academic education, business proposal, white paper, or mission statement, but it is a life development philosophy, that prepares you to release God's solutions in real time, and set yourself apart as an effective and creative contributor to your community's success."

The first Doctor of Searcherdemics recipient was Professor Shakuntala Reddy, from Richards Bay, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa, who initiated a Philosophy of KINDNESS in the education curriculum of the primary school in her community. 

"Congratulations to our three excellent UGCSI leaders who have been building and spreading their Searcherdemic Philosophies for over a decade," stated Chancellor Pitzl, "It was determined that they should be the first recipients in the world to ever be bestowed this newly established doctorate from our institution."

Watch their key Ceremony Moment Replay 

Servants of Christ

 

Recently, the topic came up about the way titles are being thrown around in church and religious circles. For most of our ministry life we have been called “pastors” Chris and Carol Green, and we have accepted that because we have understood the cultural and societal perceptions of those roles in a local church or faith community. That title reflects a responsibility, but we don't wear it as badge to set ourselves above others.

Sometimes you will hear us refer to our work and assignments in our community as apostolic or prophetic, but we have absolutely refused to refer to ourselves as Apostles Chris and Carol, or Prophet Chris and Prophetess Carol.

Just to set the record straight, the only title we see for ourselves is Servant.  Beyond that, we’re totally fine with being referred to as brother or sister, uncle or aunt, grand pa or grand ma, dad or mom, Mr. or Mrs., or just simply calling us by our given names.

Of course, in some settings, people may feel obliged to refer to us according to our life, educational, ministerial or professional roles, accomplishments, job titles, or other forms of distinction. It's their way of showing respect and honor. We get that. However, for the most part, we echo the words of Paul when he wrote:

“So look at Apollos and me as mere servants of Christ who have been put in charge of explaining God’s mysteries. Now, a person who is put in charge as a manager must be faithful.  As for me, it matters very little how I might be evaluated by you or by any human authority. I don’t even trust my own judgment on this point. My conscience is clear, but that doesn’t prove I’m right. It is the Lord himself who will examine me and decide.” ---1 Corinthians 4: 1-4

No matter what we accomplish or attain in this life, we want to be known by one description: Chris and Carol are mere Servants of Christ. 

We pray the same for you.

I JUST KNOW WE WIN

Excerpt from Our Lyrical Life

This song was written after everything had gone wrong and we didn’t know what else to do.

I just know when life goes wrong

I give a sacrifice of praise

I just know when I’m in a storm

I give a sacrifice of praise

I just know when I’m in a mess

I give a sacrifice of praise

I just know in strife and stress

I give a sacrifice of praise

We win, We win, We win

I lift my voice and say

We win, We win, We win

I praise God anyway

We win, We win, We win

I lift my hands and wave

We win, We win, We win

God has made a way

I just know when I want to give up

I make a sacrifice of praise

I just know it’s better to trust

And make a sacrifice of praise

I just know  when I make the choice

I make a sacrifice of praise

I just know to lift my voice

And make a sacrifice of praise

(Chorus)

Chris Green

Metro Arts Publishing, 2006

SQUARE ONE

Excerpt from Our Lyrical Life

WE WERE FACED WITH DEADLINES 

BEFORE THE BILLS CAME DUE

WE ASKED FOR A MIRACLE FROM GOD, 

BUT THE MORTGAGE FELL THROUGH

I KNOW WHAT THE BIBLE SAID, 

BUT STILL MY DREAM IS DEAD

I CONFESSED THE POSITIVE VERSE, 

MERE WORDS THAT FELL TO EARTH?

SQUARE ONE

DID I REALLY HEAR GOD'S VOICE?

SQUARE ONE

UNDERSTAND WHAT I SAY

SQUARE ONE

HAVE I TOTALLY COUNTED THE COST?

SQUARE ONE

DARED TO TRULY OBEY?

SATAN BRINGS THE EVIL DEEDS. 

DESTROYS AND STEALS WHAT'S OURS

BUT I THOUGHT THIS WAS A TRIAL 

TO SHOW GOD'S OVERCOMING POWER

IS MY MOTIVE SELFISHNESS, 

MY INNER GOAL SIMPLY PRIDE

I WANT TO KNOW FROM THIS DAY ON, 

HOW TO WALK BY GOD'S SIDE

(Chorus)

CHRIS GREEN

HEART OF THE NATION MUSIC, 1993

 

Rebuild, Restore, Renew (Isaiah 61)

Excerpt from Our Lyrical Life

The Spirit of the Lord has anointed Me

To set the captives free, bring liberty

Through us His Love’s revealed

Broken hearts are healed, Empty lives are filled.

He’s Rebuilding and Restoring

Renewing our Families

Now’s there’s singing, and dancing,

Rejoicing in the city

The Spirit of the Lord has covered me

To heal the pain, take away my grief

Through us His hearts revealed

To wipe away the tears, Drive away the fears

(Chorus)

He’s given us beauty for ashes.

All of the dark days are past tense.

The oil of joy for mourning,

A new day is dawning!

Rebuilding, restoring

Renewing our families,

There’s singing and dancing

Rejoicing in the city

Beauty for ashes

Dark days are past tense

Oil of joy for mourning

A new day is dawning

Chris Green, 2015

ONLY AFTER YOU

Excerpt from Our Lyrical Life

Started on this journey through the wilderness

Seeking Godly purpose and Godly promises

Sometimes I get off track, chasing world wealth

But Lord you draw me back and now I must confess 

(That I’m)

Thankful, humbled, I’m grateful

For what you’ve done in me

You’ve been faithful, merciful through the trouble

You’re ever leading me

So I love You, I trust You, pursue You

My heart is pure and true

Lord I’m thirsting and longing, chasing

Only after You

Therefore we must take heed

And stand unless we fall

Temptations to turn back 

Are common to us all

God You’re always faithful, 

God You’re always there

The urge to run away, 

Won’t be more than I can bear (So I’m)

(Chorus)

Thankful, humbled, I’m grateful

You’ve been faithful, merciful through the trouble

So I love You, I trust You, pursue You

Lord I’m thirsting and longing, chasing

Chris Green, 2019

NOBODY WILL KNOW

Excerpt from Our Lyrical Life

NOBODY WILL KNOW, BUT GOD WON'T FORGET IT

THOSE THINGS DONE IN SECRET; 

NO FAME OR ACCLAIM

NOBODY WILL KNOW, BUT YOU WON'T REGRET IT

HE'S KEEPING A RECORD 

OF WHAT'S DONE IN HIS NAME

A HUSBAND AND HIS WIFE AT THE HOSPITAL TODAY

PRAYED FOR A COUSIN, 

WHOSE LIFE WAS FADING AWAY

THEY LED HIM IN A PRAYER TO LET JESUS IN HIS LIFE

SILENT TEARS SAID THANK YOU, 

THEN HE CLOSED HIS EYES

(Chorus)

A CALL CAME IN ONE NIGHT; 

SHE HAS SIX MONTHS OF LIFE

SO HE CRIED OUT TO GOD FOR HIS AILING WIFE

THOUGH NO ONE KNEW THE BURDEN, 

NEVER ONCE DID HE COMPLAIN

GOD HEARD THE SECRET PRAYER; 

RESTORED HEALTH AGAIN

(Chorus)

Bridge: 

WHEN YOU CONSIDER THE WORTH OF YOUR LIFE

AND THE CALLING WE HAVE IN CHRIST

IT CAN'T BE MEASURED BY TREASURE OR CROWDS

WHO APPLAUD YOUR NAME WITH GREAT SHOUTS

THE SPOTLIGHT IS IN OUR HOMES; 

LIVE CHRIST IN REALITY

THE STAGE IS AT OUR BEDSIDE, 

WHERE GOD REVEALS HIS GLORY

 

"HOSANNA IN THE HIGHEST!" 

THE CROWD CALLED OUT ONE DAY

JESUS RODE INTO THE CITY, 

HE WAS COMING MY WAY

I LAID OUT MY BEST FOR HIS TRIUMPH ALONE

THE COLT TRAMPLED MY GARMENT 

AND THE MOMENT WAS GONE

(Chorus)

Chris Green

HEART OF THE NATION MUSIC, 1994